Raincoats are essential items for anyone who lives in areas with frequent rainfall. They protect you from getting wet and help you stay dry even on the wettest days. While many different types of rainwear are available on the market, PVC raincoats are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability and affordability. If you’re considering purchasing PVC rain gear but don’t know where to start, this guide is for you.
In this complete guide to PVC rainwear, we’ll cover everything you need to know about them, from their benefits to how to choose the right one for you.
What is PVC raincoat?
PVC raincoat is a waterproof garment made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a type of plastic. It’s usually long and loose-fitting to protect the body from rainfall and has an attached hood for head protection. PVC raincoats are designed to be lightweight and comfortable, keeping out moisture.
They are often used in wet climates or areas prone to flooding and can be found in many colors and styles. Some even come with reflective stripes so that they’re visible at night. PVC raincoats are reinforced with stitching on all seams, making them extremely durable against strong winds and water intrusion.
Features of PVC raincoats
A PVC raincoat is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material. PVC is a synthetic plastic polymer commonly used to waterproof raincoats and jackets. Some key properties of PVC raincoats:
- PVC is waterproof and does not absorb water. It can effectively protect the wearer from rain and moisture.
- PVC raincoats are usually lightweight, flexible and low cost.
- PVC can be made transparent or in various colors. Clear PVC raincoats provide visibility while colored ones can be fashionable.
- PVC raincoats do not breathe well and can feel sticky in warm weathers. They are more suitable for light to medium rain. Raincoats made of breathable fabrics like nylon or Gore-Tex are more comfortable for heavy rain.
- PVC can release toxic chemicals in production and disposal. Some people prefer raincoats made of more environmentally friendly materials.
- The waterproofness of PVC raincoats will decrease over time with usage and age. Re-waterproofing treatments can help revive the protection.
- PVC raincoats can last 3-5 years depending on usage frequency and quality. Proper care and storage can extend the lifespan.
How many types of PVC Raincoats?
There are many styles of PVC raincoats, ranging from long coats for extra protection from the elements to informal jackets and ponchos ideal for everyday wear. Here is an overview of the different types of PVC raincoats available:
Long PVC Raincoats: Long PVC raincoats are designed for maximum coverage and protection against the rain. These coats typically come down to the knees or below and feature water-resistant seams that can hold up against heavy rainfall. Longer coats also often feature hoods, drawstrings, and additional pockets to keep your items secure while out and about.
PVC Rain Jackets: PVC rain jackets provide moderate coverage while maintaining a slim, perfect silhouette for everyday wear. They usually have features like adjustable cuffs, zipper closures, drawstrings around the bottom hem, and pockets at the side seams. The lightweight material helps keep you dry without making you feel weighed down or overheated.
PVC Ponchos: Ponchos are often considered more as fashion statements than practical pieces of outerwear but that doesn’t mean they won’t keep you dry! The waterproof material in PVC ponchos will protect you from surprise showers while allowing some ventilation to keep cool on hot days. Plus, plenty of interesting patterns are available so you can find one that suits your style perfectly.
PVC Trench Coats: If you want something functional and fashionable, look no further than a PVC trench coat! These sophisticated pieces offer full body coverage with high collars and deep pockets and belt loops to achieve a truly flattering fit. Plus, thanks to their sleek design they look great paired with any outfit – dressy or casual!
How to Choose the Right PVC Raincoat?
Choosing the right PVC raincoat for your needs can be a difficult decision. Considering all aspects of purchasing a raincoat, such as purpose, material, and style, is important. Each factor will help you decide which model and design suits your needs best.
Purpose of PVC Raincoats
The first step in choosing the right raincoat is to consider why you need one. Do you need it for work? Are you looking for something that will keep you warm and dry? Or are you just looking for an umbrella alternative when running errands? Knowing your exact purpose can help narrow down the choices available to make the selection process easier.
Material of PVC Raincoats
Once you know what purpose your raincoat serves, it is time to consider the material it is made out of. There are many materials used to make raincoats, but PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is often seen as a popular choice due its water-resistance and lightweight nature. In addition, unlike other materials like leather or wool, PVC does not absorb moisture, making it ideal for wet weather conditions. The downside is that this material does not offer much breathability, so those looking for more comfort should look into other options such as nylon or polyester fabrics instead.
Style of PVC Raincoats
After deciding on the use and material, selecting the style comes next. Different styles may include trench coats with belts or drawstrings; shorter jackets with hoods; long coats with button fastenings; or even sleeveless vests with zippers. Consider what type of clothing you typically wear and then find a style that complements it accordingly so that it looks both fashionable and practical at the same time.
Maintenance and Care for PVC Raincoats
To maximize the lifespan and use of your PVC raincoat, it is important to take certain steps to properly care for and maintain it. Below are some tips on how to properly clean and store your PVC raincoat:
Cleaning PVC Raincoats:
While cleaning a PVC raincoat is fairly straightforward, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Start by gently brushing off debris or dirt with a soft brush, then wipe down the coat with a damp cloth. If stubborn spots won’t come off easily, you may need to lightly scrub them with a mild soap or detergent solution applied directly onto the spot. Once the fabric has been cleaned, rinse the coat thoroughly in cold water until all remaining soap suds have been removed. Finally, hang your coat up on an outside line or inside clothesline away from direct sunlight to dry fully. Do not place in the dryer as this could cause damage both to the coat itself and also shorten its lifespan significantly.
Storing PVC Raincoats:
When storing your PVC raincoat, it is important to ensure it is completely dry before folding or hanging away. This will help prevent mold growth which can be damaging over time if left unchecked. While hanging would be preferred for longer term storage, if you choose to fold your coat for short periods, make sure that it is folded neatly so as not to create creases or heavy wrinkles in the material, which can weaken its protective qualities over time due to extra wear and tear created when moving around while wearing it.
Which raincoat is best? PVC or Polyester
Between PVC and polyester, polyester raincoats are generally better in most aspects:
- Breathability: Polyester is a breathable fabric that allows moisture vapor to pass through. PVC is non-breathable and can feel sticky in warm weather. Polyester raincoats are more comfortable for a wider range of weather conditions.
- durability: High-quality polyester raincoats typically last longer than PVC ones. With proper care, a polyester raincoat can last 5-10 years. PVC raincoats usually start leaking after 3-5 years.
- Packability: Polyester is a lightweight, flexible fabric easily packed into a small space. PVC lacks flexibility and is more difficult to fold and pack.
- Eco-friendliness: Polyester is more environmentally friendly than PVC which releases toxic chemicals during manufacturing and disposal.
- Weather protection: High-performance polyester fabrics like nylon provides equal or better waterproofness than regular PVC. Some are designed for heavy-duty weather conditions.
- Style: Polyester raincoats come in various stylish designs for versatile outdoor uses. PVC raincoats typically have a basic and casual style.
However, PVC raincoats do have some advantages too:
- Low cost: PVC raincoats are very affordable and budget-friendly. Polyester raincoats, especially high-performance ones, tend to be more expensive.
- Transparency: Clear PVC provides high visibility which can be useful for some activities. Most polyester raincoats are not transparent.
- Ease of cleaning: PVC raincoats only require wiping or surface washing. Polyester ones may need machine washing which can reduce water resistance over time if not properly treated.
So overall, a high-quality polyester rainjacket is superior for general use, but a PVC raincoat can still work for basic rain protection on a budget. It depends on your specific needs and how often you use a raincoat.
Where to buy PVC raincoats?
Here are some good places to buy PVC raincoats:
- Amazon – Amazon offers inexpensive PVC raincoats in various styles and colors. Popular brands include Totes, Hunter, Seaworld, Coleman, etc. Prices typically range from $10 to $30.
- Walmart – Walmart is another great store for affordable PVC rain jackets and ponchos. They carry basic styles from brands like Swiss Tech, High Sierra and Frogg Toggs with prices under $20.
- Home Depot – Home Depot carries PVC rain suits, jackets, pants and bibs for work or recreation. Brands include Stearns, Coleman and Southwest. Prices are around $20-$50.
- Discount retailers like Marshalls, TJ Maxx and Burlington regularly stock PVC raincoats, especially in spring and fall. You may find good deals on name brands at these stores.
- Workwear retailers like Grainger offer heavy-duty PVC raincoats and suits for commercial or industrial use. Prices will also reflect the high-performance nature, generally ranging from $30-$100.
Conclusion
In conclusion, PVC raincoats have become popular for people who want to stay dry during rainy weather. They are not only affordable but also durable and easy to clean. With the right care, these raincoats can last for years without losing effectiveness. Whether you’re going for a casual look or need a raincoat for outdoor activities, PVC raincoats are a practical option to keep you dry and comfortable. With the information provided in this guide, you can choose the right PVC raincoat for your needs and make the most of this versatile and reliable rain gear.
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